Tuesday, February 9, 2010

TV Time!


Anyone who knows me very well knows I am a TV addict--reality TV to be exact. I wish my reality included this very attractive and functional Newkirk Media Stand from West Elm (now $638, was $798). Tonight I will be watching "Millionaire Matchmaker," "Toddlers and Tiaras," and "Property Virgins." Sounds like I'm gonna need a bigger TV and TV stand ASAP! Better start saving my pennies for this one.

Monday, February 8, 2010

In Between a Rock And... Another Rock


When styling bookcases, I am always on the lookout for interesting, sculptural, and cheap items. So I was thrilled to find this little beauty the other day for atop an entertainment console. Staring at the glittering facets of VivaTerra's Agate Geode Bookends (were $129, now $89) would be entertainment enough for me!

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Weekend Musings: Mad About Mirrors!


Mirrors are an important consideration for any room. Mirrors are not just another option for wall art. They are meant to serve functions. Each mirror you hang should a have a purpose in a room.

Most obviously, mirrors reflect objects. Not only do they help you see your image, they also reflect any item they are hung across from. So you want to ensure that you hang a mirror across from something you don’t mind duplicating. In other words, don’t hang a mirror across from an unsightly door, collection of cords, or anything else you don’t want two of. Enhance your décor by hanging one across from things you like. For instance, put a mirror across from a thriving plant or flickering candle sconce.

Mirrors are also a great way to add light to a room. When opposite a window, you nearly double the light streaming in. I love a chunky mirror hung horizontally above a sofa that is opposite a wall of windows. If you have limited windows in your room, you can also hang a mirror facing a light source, i.e. a pendant light or chandelier. A large mirror would set off a wrought iron chandelier in a contemporary dining room.

Change the perspective in your space by adding mirrors. You can make a hallway appear longer by hanging a mirror at the end of it. An oversized, leaning mirror against a wall in a bedroom adds both height and length to the space.

Finally, you can improve your home’s feng shui with the appropriate use of mirrors. If your front door opens up to a staircase, prevent your good energy from going straight out the door by putting a mirror at the top of the steps. If your desk faces away from the office door, hang one above your workspace so that you can see behind you.

Never hang a mirror without knowing what purpose it serves. Mirrors are not just aesthetic items. They are functional. Have them serve your space best by hanging them opposite things of beauty, windows, narrow hallways, or by using them as feng shui remedies.

Betsy Head

For more info., go to Betsy’s site:
www.affordableinteriordesignnyc.com

Friday, February 5, 2010

What the $****#$ Fridays: Off With Their Heads!

I love the theatre and I love heads (people with the last name included). So why is it that I dislike Ballard Design's Theatre Fragment Heads so much? No matter the price ($129.99 or now $89.99), I still find these accent items creepy. Not only are they disarming, they are dismembered. Count this theatre lover out on this one!

Thursday, February 4, 2010

I'll have mine with scallops...


New and interesting mirrors are always handy. I put them at the end of halls to add visual length. I put them over couches to reflect sunlight from a window. I would put PBteen's Scalloped Mirror ($129, was $149) in a variety of places: over a console in an entry, above a vanity table, or anywhere I want to add a fun shape for cheap!

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Betsy Ain't Frontin'


Naw, she's not. She really loves Napastyle's New Front-Tier Accent Table (was $168, now $133.99). It's curving slim lines look great with either traditional or country decor. And, being a Missouri gal, ain't nothin' Betsy likes more than a little touch o' country--on sale!

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Nailed It!

Home Depot or haute design? You be the judge. I'm saying Ballard Design's use of nails is a nice touch. I am loving the masculine edge of their Nailhead Lamp. While the piece may be tough as nails, you can tell the guy who marked it down to $99 (was $219) was a softy!